South Africa will welcome the World Conference of Science Journalists (WCSJ) to Pretoria from December 1 to 5, 2025. This marks the first time the prestigious conference will be held in Southern Africa and the first on the African continent.
Mandi Smallhorne, President of the South African Science Journalists Association (SASJA), announced that the event will take place at the CSIR International Convention Centre under the theme “Science Journalism and Social Justice – Our Role in Promoting Resilience.”
Organized by SASJA, a Special Interest Group of the Southern African Freelancers Association, and the Science Diplomacy Capital for Africa (SDCfA) in collaboration with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, the conference will offer science journalists a platform to exchange ideas, stimulate discussions, and explore ways to enhance resilience in communities.
“The WCSJ provides a unique opportunity for science journalists to connect, learn, and contribute to solving global challenges,” Smallhorne said. “It’s also a great chance to engage with stakeholders and experience our country’s rich scientific and cultural heritage.”
The conference, held every two years, is the largest international gathering of science journalists, featuring seminars, workshops, and lectures. Attendees will benefit from a dynamic program and gain insights from global experts.
Additionally, delegates can look forward to various day trips and extended tours showcasing South Africa’s scientific achievements and natural wonders, including the Square Kilometre Array Observatory, advanced genomic sequencing, and the Cradle of Humankind.
